Event program
Perhaps the most significant benefit of sustainable energy is its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Burning fossil fuels for energy releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and its associated consequences, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Sustainable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro power generate electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gases, making them a vital tool in mitigating the effects of climate change.
In addition to addressing climate change, sustainable energy also helps to conserve natural resources. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and will eventually run out, sustainable energy sources are renewable and will never be depleted. By harnessing the power of the sun, wind, water, and geothermal heat, we can meet our energy needs without degrading the environment or harming future generations.
Thursday
The Green New Deal
with John Steward Jackson
This topic would explore the implications of the Green New Deal, a proposed policy package aimed at addressing climate change and economic inequality. Speakers could discuss the proposed initiatives and their potential impact on sustainability efforts.
Sustainable Development Goals
with Amanda Onana
Sustainable Development Goals: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities.
This topic would examine the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and their progress, challenges, and opportunities. Speakers could discuss the goals and their impact on sustainability efforts, as well as potential ways to improve progress.
Innovations in Renewable Energy
with Kelly Olsson
From Concept to Commercialization
This topic would explore innovations in renewable energy technologies, from the research and development stage to commercialization. Speakers could discuss the challenges and opportunities of scaling up new technologies and the role of government and private sector investment in supporting them.
Principles, Practices, and Policy
with Edward Pickford
This topic would examine the principles and practices of the circular economy, including design for reuse, recycling, and repurposing, as well as the policy and regulatory frameworks needed to support it. Speakers could discuss examples of successful circular economy initiatives and potential ways to promote adoption.
Social Equity and Environmental Justice
with Henrik Kovic
Addressing Inequities in Sustainability
This topic would explore the intersection of social equity and sustainability, including addressing the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities. Speakers could discuss best practices for incorporating social equity into sustainability initiatives and ways to overcome structural barriers.
Regenerative Agriculture
with Richard Richardson
This topic would examine the principles and practices of regenerative agriculture, which focuses on promoting soil health and biodiversity while also increasing yields. Speakers could discuss successful examples of regenerative agriculture and ways to promote adoption and scaling up.
Friday
Sustainable Finance and Investment:
This topic would explore the role of sustainable finance and investment in promoting sustainability. Speakers could discuss the challenges and opportunities of integrating environmental, social, and governance considerations into investment decisions, as well as emerging sustainable finance instruments.
Sustainable Transportation
This topic would examine the challenges and opportunities of promoting sustainable transportation, including electrification, public transportation, and active transportation. Speakers could discuss the role of policy, technology, and infrastructure in supporting sustainable mobility.
Building Resilience to Climate Change
This topic would explore strategies for building resilience to climate change, including both adaptation and mitigation measures. Speakers could discuss the challenges and opportunities of implementing these strategies and ways to integrate them into broader sustainability planning.
Saturday
The Role of Local Communities in Promoting Sustainability
This topic would examine the role of local communities in promoting sustainability, including grassroots initiatives and community-based partnerships. Speakers could discuss successful examples of community-led sustainability efforts and potential ways to promote wider adoption.
Sustainable fashion and textiles
This topic discusses sustainable fashion and textiles and the need for sustainable production and consumption in the fashion industry.
The role of technology in promoting sustainability
This topic explores the role of technology in promoting sustainability, including innovative solutions for energy efficiency and waste reduction.